Duterte OKs P4.7-B fund for war veterans, army retirees, widows

ABS-CBN News

MANILA - President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the release of P4.7 billion for the payment of administrative liability and arrears to World War II veterans, widows of slain soldiers and Army retirees aged 80 and above.

In a speech during the National Heroes' Day rites at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, Duterte said the amount was appropriated in the 2016 budget but was not released by his predecessor, Benigno Aquino III.

He said he has signed implementing rules and regulations (IRR) so that the funds could be disbursed "as soon as possible."

Duterte also explained that out of the total amount, P3.5 billion will be allocated to the pension of widows while P1.2 billion will go to AFP retirees and war veterans.